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Thursday, November 15 2012

Architect and co-founder of DOCOMOMO International, Wessel de Jonge, discusses the restoration and reuse of Rotterdam’s Van Nelle Factory. An icon of modernism, the Van Nelle Factory was designed and constructed by Brinkman and Van der Vlugt in the 1920s. The structure was designed on the premise that a modern, healthy working environment in green surroundings would be good for both production and workers. The factory had a huge impact on the development of modern architecture in Europe and elsewhere.

Having fallen into disrepair, the building was restored by Mr. de Jonge initiated in 1999, in an attempt to reuse the influential building. Today the Van Nelle Design Factory provides office space for new media and design companies.